What is the recommended following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you on a motorcycle?

On a motorcycle, maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for ensuring that you have enough time to react to any sudden changes in traffic. A following distance of at least 2 seconds is generally recommended. This timeframe allows a motorcyclist to gauge the distance they need to stop safely and also accounts for the unique handling characteristics of a motorcycle, which may require more stopping distance than a standard vehicle under certain conditions.

This 2-second rule can be checked by selecting a stationary object on the road and counting "one thousand and one, one thousand and two" as the vehicle in front passes it. If you reach the object before you finish counting, you are too close and should increase your distance.

A greater following distance is beneficial in various situations, such as adverse weather or when riding with a passenger or cargo, but the minimum 2 seconds is widely recognized as a basic guideline for everyday riding conditions. This helps ensure that a rider can maintain control and respond effectively to potential hazards.